5 Tropical Destinations You Won’t Believe Are in Ontario, Canada
I think we can all agree that you don’t have to hop on an airplane to go on vacation. I’ve experienced just a fraction of what Ontario has to offer, and I still find myself speechless when exploring. Sometimes, I question if I am really in Canada—especially when it looks like the Caribbean!
Here are 5 Ontario destinations that feel like a tropical retreat:
Scarborough Bluffs – Bluffers Park
Usually, when you think of Toronto, you think hustle and bustle, but at Scarborough Bluffs you can escape the noise. Enjoy a brisk walk along the coast of Lake Ontario while staring up at the bluffs. The highest point is 90 metres (300 feet) above the water. Additionally, Scarborough Bluffs makes for a great sunrise location for those who don’t want a strenuous hike in the morning. The shoreline is just off the parking lot. Bring a blanket and enjoy.
Pinery Provincial Park – Lake Huron
An evening at Lake Huron will leave you awestruck. Pop on over to Pinery Provincial Park and utilize this family-friendly provincial park during the day. There are canoe and kayak rentals for those who want to paddle the Old Ausable Channel. Alternatively, rent a bike and cycle the 14-kilometre (one-way) Savanna Trail. National Geographic ranked Pinery’s sunsets amongst the “Top 10 Best in the World,” so naturally, I had to see one for myself. I suggest hiking the Cedar Trail a couple of hours before sunset to ensure you make it to the end of the 2.3-kilometre loop trail to set up and watch the array of colour along the 10-kilometre long sandy beach.
Colpoy’s Bay
Within the small town of Wiarton, just south of the Bruce Peninsula, keen adventurers will find a secluded inlet. You can start your adventure at Spirit Rock Conservation Area (parking fee of $6), where you will see ruins of the 1880s McNeill Estate, a historical landmark known as the Corran, which was a 17-room stone mansion. If searching for a view, climb to the edge of the Niagara Escapement and lookout over the tranquil blue bay. A spiral staircase leads to over five kilometres worth of hiking trails. The Blue Loop Trail is 2.3 kilometres and offers nice coastal views. Bring a picnic and enjoy the lush forest along the bay. Alternatively, you can park at Colpoy’s Lookout Conservation Area to enjoy the views for less effort.
Bruce Peninsula National Park: The Grotto & Indian Head Cove
One of Ontario’s most popular Caribbean-looking destinations can be found in Bruce Peninsula National Park. In the most northern part of Tobermory, you’ll find brilliant turquoise waters. The park offers hiking trails and overnight opportunities including canoe camping, backcountry camping and car camping. Extend your stay to fully appreciate The Grotto, a natural sea cave formed from erosion of tides crashing into the rock surfaces.
Next to it is Indian Head Cove, a focal point between Lake Huron and the Georgian Bay that brings in monstrous waves. In the summertime, you can find explorers cooling off here and swimming to The Grotto for a closer look. My favourite time to explore the area is in the winter because of the contrast between the snow and turquoise waters. A mixture of colder temperatures and the higher tides create tall ice formations that emote a winter wonderland fairy-tale experience.
Lions Head Lookout
Every time I hike to Lions Head Lookout, I have a “pinch me, I’m dreaming” moment. Why? Because Lions Head Provincial Park meanders along ancient rock crevices and potholes leading to high clifftop views. These views enwrap a hiker’s mind into feeling like they are in a different country. Again, turquoise waters can be seen along the coastline as well as brave rock climbers busily scaling cliff faces. The Lions Head Loop trail consists of two loops—the main trail (blue blazes) and inland trail (white blazes)—for a total of 18 kilometres.
Where have you explored in Ontario? Where will you explore next?
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